Hardness is a property of water derived mainly from the presence of calcium and magnesium, although other natural minerals may also contribute hardness to water. In water, these minerals exhibit lathering properties and react with soap to form undesirable precipitates such as the slimy bathtub ring, and also combine with minerals in water heaters to form efficiency robbing scale on tank walls and in pipes.

Highland Village, like many other water suppliers, occasionally experiences taste and odor changes. In the summer and early fall, microscopic organisms, such as algae in area lakes, occasionally give water an earthy taste and odor. The odor may be more noticeable in hot water from your pipes. Temperature change, excessive rainfall, and flooding can also alter the taste of the water.

You may also detect a difference in taste after returning home from an extended trip. This is caused when the water is stored in the house plumbing for a long time. After running the tap for a few minutes, the taste should return to normal. These changes do not affect the safety of the water.

Often your water is discolored because of main breaks and repairs. The color comes from iron or mineral deposits inside the pipe that become dislodged during the repairs. If discolored water appears frequently, is usually the first water drawn in the morning, or occurs only in one section of the house, the home plumbing probably causes it. If it is caused by work on water mains, wait until the work is completed and then run the faucet until the water is clear.

Cloudy water is often caused by dissolved oxygen being released from the water. Cold water can hold more oxygen than warm water. Water saturated with oxygen will release the oxygen as it warms. This release makes the water appear milky or cloudy, but it does not affect the safety of the water. The cloudiness usually will disappear in about 30 seconds.